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It is not uncommon for some Samoyeds to have a change in nose color when seasons change. Though there can be many underlying reasons for it, weather plays the most common role in a Samoyed’s nose turning pink.
Season change may also affect other outer appearances of a nose like a nose wetness. With a weather change, one might notice that a Samoyed’s nose is dry and cold, or wet. You should also know that some Samoyeds are born with pink noses.
Let’s figure out if there are actual reasons to worry about a Samoyed pink nose. The most common reason for a Samoyed’s nose to turn pink is the so-called ‘Snow Nose’. However, it is important to cover the illnesses that might cause a nose pigmentation change. The best thing to do in case you notice any of the illness-related symptoms (mentioned later in the article) coupled with lack of nose pigmentation is to consult with your vet. This article will help you with preliminary research and technical know-how.
Before we move on to the in-depth coverage of illnesses causing your Samoyed’s nose to turn pink, let’s look at what Snow Nose is all about.
What is Snow Nose in Dogs?
Snow Nose is a phenomenon observed in many dog breeds where they experience a change of nose pigmentation. The nose pigmentation can change from black to light brown or even pink color. Sometimes it may be coupled with excessive dryness or wetness of a Samoyed nose. Usually, it is a temporary change.
The name ‘Snow Nose’ comes from the notion that the color of the nose changes in the winter season, the snow time. But it is important to note that snow is not a reason for your Samoyed to show signs of a Snow Nose. Even dogs who aren’t exposed to cold weather can develop Snow Nose signs. In Samoyeds, this is also called a Dudley Nose.
In some dogs, the symptoms of a Snow Nose can be permanent. In most Samoyeds, it is a temporary phenomenon and only occurs during a change of season/weather. But there are cases when a Samoyed puppy’s nose turned pink permanently without any pigmentation-related illnesses. And in this case, it would be better to consult with your vet.
Snow Nose is just a visual change in your Samoyed’s nose appearance. It does not affect their health in any way. So if your Samoyed is showing signs of Snow Nose and the nose pigmentation gets back to normal in several days, there is nothing to worry about.
What Causes a Snow Nose in Dogs
Winter temperatures and short daylight coupled with an enzyme called tyrosinase that is sensitive to temperatures are known to cause Snow Nose in Samoyeds. It is usually observed in dog breeds that have historically been raised in cold regions (like Huskies, Samoyeds, Bernese Mountain Dogs, etc).
In most cases, the color of the nose returns back to the previous pigmentation over time. But it is important to note that in older Samoyeds this might not be the case. In most older Samoyeds the nose doesn’t change back to its black pigment and stays light-colored.
Other Reasons Why Your Samoyed's Nose is Turning Pink
Thyroid Level
In some Samoyeds, the pigmentation on their nose is sometimes linked to their thyroid level. Unless you notice additional changes like excessive shedding, lethargy, and unnatural obesity in your Samoyed, you do not need to worry.
Ageing
As your Samoyed grows old and undergoes many bodily changes, you’ll start noticing that its nose does not change back to its black color. The enzyme tyrosinase starts getting depleted over time as the dog grows old. This enzyme is responsible for melanin generation. Tyrosinase does not react well with temperature changes. Hence it might cause semi-permanent or permanent loss of pigment in your Samoyed’s nose.
Injury
When your adorable furry ball scrapes their nose pretty badly, you’ll notice their nose turning pink. Check for minor injuries on its nose before considering other causes. The lightening of the nose skin, in this case, is caused by the healing process. Once the scab comes off, your Samoyed will go back to its black nose.
Contact Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is when the skin reacts to a certain product when contacted with it. It happens to humans, and can also happen to your Sammy. These products or ‘surfaces’ can be anything from a favorite chew toy to a feeding bowl. If you notice swollen lips along with a lighter nose, start with replacing the food bowl (since that is where they usually bury their nose). In case that doesn’t bring any results, start replacing other things that might come in close contact with their nose daily.
Pemphigus and Discoid Lupus
Both of these illnesses are immune-related skin disorders. One of the symptoms is a loss of pigmentation, sometimes coupled with sores around the nose area. These conditions can worsen with prolonged sun exposure. It is better to consult with your vet immediately once these symptoms are observed.
VKH-like Syndrome or UDS (Uveodermatological Syndrome)
It is an auto-immune disease where the body’s T-cells attack the melanin forming cells and cause a loss of pigment. It is rare in Samoyeds, but it might happen.
Why do some Samoyeds have pink noses permanently?
Some Samoyeds are born with a pink nose or develop one over the period of a few years. Many puppies are born with pink noses and develop the black pigment over time. Puppies that have pink noses throughout their life sometimes have it either because of genetics or a loss of nasal pigment from birth. Both of these are nothing to be worried about since there is no harm to their health.
Since Samoyeds have white fur, it might be difficult to detect if they have a pigmentation deficiency from birth. One way to get it checked is to enquire the breeder of its parents if either of them had a pink nose. And also check if it was a permanent one.
You might find that some older Sammys have a pink nose that stays permanently despite them being born with a black nose. The reason behind it is because older Samoyeds have a lower capacity to regain their nose’s color after a pigmentation change.
What to do when your Samoyed has had a pink nose for a while now
In most cases, depending on the amount of sun exposure that your Samoyed gets, it can stand a chance to get sunburned. Especially if it has a lightened nose. If you are someone who takes your Sammy out for regular morning walks, it would be better if you invested in a good dog sunscreen. Make sure you ask your vet if it is okay to use one on your Samoyed.
Finally, your Samoyed’s nose is mostly turning pink because of changing weather conditions. This is normal and not something to particularly worry about unless it is coupled with other symptoms.
Related Questions:
Should I let my Samoyed puppy sleep in my bed at night?
Letting your puppy sleep in your bed is a common practice. Samoyeds are very friendly dogs that always need company. If your puppy is new, then sleeping with them is very beneficial since they will have a sense of security and feel protected. However, many dog owners suggest not to share your bed with your Samoyed puppy until the puppy is potty-trained and crate trained. Otherwise, it might cause problems in the future like separation anxiety. It is recommended to start crate training them from the day you bring a Samoyed puppy home. You could let your puppy sleep with you several weeks after when you are confident it won’t make a problem.
How long can my Samoyed puppy sleep at night without peeing?
Most Samoyeds get fully potty trained by six months old. However, they may have accidents here and there till they are twelve months old. Housetraining requires patience and consistency. If you are consistent, then you can expect your Samoyed puppy to sleep without peeing at night by six months old. Do not be discouraged if they still have accidents after that. If you stick to the routine, your Samoyed will get potty trained in no time.
